Councillor Richard Foley is FOSTERING A COLLABORATIVE COUNCIL ENVIRONMENT, REDUCING FACTIONAL RIVALRIES AND DELIVERING PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS FOR WAGGA WAGGA.
Foley's Five Policies
WE'LL pledge complete transparency and openness in civic affairs, ensuring clear mechanisms for public feedback and participation.
Road Repair & INNOVATION
We are committed to improving the quality and longevity of our road infrastructure by embracing cutting-edge materials, innovative techniques, advanced machinery, and proactive maintenance. Safe and well-maintained roads are vital for economic growth, public safety, and overall community well-being.
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Our policy outlines our comprehensive approach to road repairs, emphasising innovative technologies and machinery to ensure durable, cost-effective, and environmentally sustainable maintenance. We’ll ensure all roads within our jurisdiction are safe, smooth and reliable. We’ll utilise advanced materials and techniques to extend the lifespan of road repairs, and we’ll deploy cutting-edge machinery and processes to expedite repair work and minimise disruption. Additionally, we will allocate significant funds from our community housing trust policy to support these initiatives.
HEAVY TRANSPORT & RAIL BYPASS
Wagga Wagga, the heart of the Riverina region, stands as a vibrant hub of agricultural, commercial, and cultural activities. However, as our city continues to grow and thrive, it faces mounting pressures from increased heavy transport and rail traffic. We propose a heavy transport and rail bypass solution, including the diversion of inland rail around the city and the critical duplication of the critical Gobba Bridge.
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The call for a heavy transport and rail bypass, coupled with the duplication of the Gobba Bridge, is not just about addressing immediate concerns; it is about securing a prosperous and sustainable future for Wagga Wagga. By acting urgently and decisively, Foley’s Five will enhance safety, drive economic growth, protect our environment, and improve the quality of life for all residents. The time to invest in these critical infrastructure projects is now, for the benefit of our city today and for generations to come.
A Safer Community For All
In an era where urban communities face security challenges, we propose implementing a community CCTV pool to enhance public safety. By pooling resources, neighbourhoods can deploy a comprehensive network of surveillance cameras, ensuring broader coverage and consistent monitoring of public spaces, streets, parks, and communal areas.
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The presence of CCTV cameras acts as a significant deterrent to potential criminals. Knowing they are being watched reduces the likelihood of criminal activities such as theft, vandalism, and assault. Criminals often avoid areas with visible surveillance, leading to a decrease in crime rates. With continuous monitoring, authorities can quickly identify and respond to suspicious activities or emergencies. This rapid response capability is crucial in mitigating risks and ensuring the safety of residents. For instance, if a child goes missing, CCTV footage can be immediately reviewed to assist in the search.
New Off-Leash Dog Parks
As a community that values its pets, we propose the development of three new off-leash dog parks in key locations spread across the city. These parks will feature separate areas for small and large dogs, addressing current shortcomings and ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience for all pets and their owners.
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Larger, well-planned dog parks are crucial for the physical and mental health of our pets. They need room to exercise, socialise, and engage in natural behaviours. Separate areas for different sizes of dogs also reduce the risk of injuries and stress. These new parks will feature amenities such as water stations, shaded seating areas, and agility equipment to ensure both dogs and their owners have a great experience. Additionally, we will establish BBQ areas with covered seating, providing a perfect spot for families and friends to gather and enjoy a day out with their pets.
State-of-the-Art Equine Sports Centre
The Equine Sports Centre will be a state-of-the-art hub for equestrian activities in Wagga Wagga, boosting our local economy through tourism events while celebrating our rich equestrian culture. By utilising existing resources and fostering strong community partnerships, this facility will provide a professional environment for local riders, create jobs, and offer new opportunities for local businesses, positioning our city as a leader in the industry and a proud supporter of community growth.
A Housing Trust Using Council-Owned Land
Housing affordability is a pressing issue in many communities across Australia, and local governments play a crucial role in addressing this challenge. We will establish a housing trust using council-owned land to provide affordable housing options for residents, ensuring it remains a priority for the community.
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The primary objectives of establishing a housing trust using council-owned land are to increase the supply of affordable housing within the local government area; promote social inclusion and diversity through mixed-income housing developments; ensure long-term, affordable and sustainable housing projects; foster partnerships with non-profit organisations, private developers, and other stakeholders; and enhance the quality of life for residents by providing safe, affordable, and well-maintained housing options. We’ll get housing in Wagga Wagga back on track and give our residents the dignity they deserve.
Wagga Wagga Airport
Wagga Wagga Airport holds immense potential to become a pivotal hub of high technology in aviation and avionics. We will secure federal funding for significant upgrades, including the terminal expansion and the construction of a second runway, so that our airport can transform into a dynamic centre for education, technology, and private sector advancements.
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A new terminal in Wagga Wagga will accommodate increased passenger traffic and provide state-of-the-art facilities for research, education, and private sector activities. The construction of a second runway capable of landing large passenger jets is crucial for facilitating major capital city flights and direct connections to major global hubs. This connectivity is vital for attracting international students, researchers, business travellers, and investors, thereby integrating Wagga Wagga into the global aviation and technology network.
Riverina Men's Centre
Men in the Riverina region face a variety of challenges that impact their mental, physical, and social well-being. These challenges often go unaddressed due to a lack of specialised services. We’ll open the Riverina Men’s Centre, which will offer a holistic approach to men’s health and well-being and foster a supportive environment where men can access the care they need.
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The Riverina Men’s Centre represents a critical investment in the health and well-being of men in our community. By providing integrated services that address mental health, physical health, legal challenges, anger management, and domestic violence prevention, the centre will foster a supportive and healthier environment for men. This policy underscores our commitment to creating a holistic support system that enhances the quality of life for men in the Riverina region and strengthens our community as a whole.
OPod Transitional Housing for Homeless People in Wagga Wagga
We are committed to addressing homelessness with innovative, compassionate, and practical solutions. Recognising that housing is a fundamental human right, Councillor Foley is championing the use of OPods— large, retrofitted concrete pipes—as a transitional housing solution. This policy aims to provide safe, dignified, and immediate shelter for those experiencing homelessness in our community.
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This initiative includes selecting suitable sites for these units, ensuring access to utilities, and offering comprehensive support services like case management, employment programs, and community integration. Collaboration with local businesses and organisations will play a vital role in helping OPod residents transition to permanent housing and reintegrate into the community.
Thriving Villages to Support Our Farming Community
We believe our villages and farms are deeply interconnected, with their success linked. That’s why Foley’s Five are committed to supporting our farming community and ensuring both thrive. By prioritising infrastructure, local business, agricultural support, and community services, we can secure a prosperous future for all.
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With your support, I will continue to drive sustainable growth, modernize infrastructure, and create a thriving Wagga Wagga for all.
CR RICHARD FOLEY
VOTE 1 FOLEY'S FIVE
ABOUT Richard
I am standing for re-election because I am deeply committed to advancing Wagga Wagga’s future. With a proven track record on the council, I’ve successfully advocated for critical infrastructure improvements, leveraging new technology for pothole repairs, pushing for an inland rail bypass, and advancing the duplication of the Gobba Bridge. These successes demonstrate my dedication and effectiveness in delivering results.
My vision for Wagga Wagga is ambitious yet practical. I aim to enhance our city’s social and economic prosperity by establishing a Community Housing Trust to provide affordable housing solutions. This initiative is crucial in meeting our community’s growing need for accessible homes and ensuring everyone has a secure place to live.
Men’s health is another priority. I am passionate about creating better male role models and promoting mental health awareness among men. I am seeking support on the new council to address both physical and mental health challenges faced by our male residents. I am calling on the establishment of the Riverina Men’s Centre.
These are just two of my many and varied interests to pursue politically on this next council if I am fortunate to be returned by the residents of this city.
I’ve worked hard to foster a collaborative council environment, reducing factional rivalries and focusing on practical solutions. With your support, I will continue to drive sustainable growth, modernize infrastructure, and create a thriving Wagga Wagga for all.